BBIF 2008: Drum Machine

Watch Minneapolis’s Jill Bernard performing DRUM MACHINE at the Black Box Improv Festival (the annual improv comedy festival I produce) on 9/27/2008. Drum Machine is a one-person unscripted structure featuring scenes, monologues and songs accompanied by the mad beats of the Zoom-Rhythmtrak 123 which Bernard calls, “Nature’s finest drum machine.” Typically the show opens with an improvised sing-along, and then explores a historical period suggested by the audience. From a punk persona launch pad, Bernard switches back and forth between characters with stunning virtuosity. Video courtesy of FuseBox Theatre in Nashville, TN. Thanks FuseBox!

Buy Jill Bernard’s Small Cute Book of Improv

Jill Bernard, a favorite on the improv festival circuit, shares her method of creating spontaneous characters, VAPAPO. This tiny book is an easy way to get more into the scene and less into your head with shortcuts to fuller, playful characters. This third edition features original essays on improv based on ten years of teaching. Only $5.

“A must read. This book might change your life.” — Joe Bill

“It speaks from the heart and to all the voices in your head.” — Mark Sutton